Dhaka: Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam, MP, announced that the government is planning to establish AI and freelancing training centres at every upazila level. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to expand 5G services and enhance high-speed internet connectivity throughout the country.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Faqir Mahbub Anam, who also serves as the Minister of the Science and Technology Ministry, emphasized the importance of equipping the young generation with skills in AI and freelancing to enable them to earn substantial income abroad. The government’s election manifesto prioritizes the telecommunications and ICT sector as a key area for job creation.
The minister highlighted the government’s commitment to providing reliable, high-speed internet for everyone and reducing the digital divide between urban and rural areas through nationwide expansion of last-mile fibre connectivity. Efforts are also underway to extend satellite-based connectivity to remote, char, hilly, and coastal regions to provide high-speed internet services.
To prepare for 5G and future technologies, the government plans to expand 5G services in divisional cities, industrial zones, and airports. Modern infrastructure for AI, cloud, data centres, IoT, and smart connectivity-based services is also being developed. Cyber security, data protection, and network resilience are top priorities, with initiatives to implement laws and policies related to national information management, personal data protection, and cyber security.
Regarding TeleTalk, the minister stated that there are no current plans to sell the state-run operator. However, there are financial limitations, and the government is exploring opportunities for financial support through government-to-government arrangements or foreign investment under public-private partnership models. TeleTalk’s presence helps maintain market competition and prevents arbitrary price increases by private operators.
Faqir Mahbub Anam also mentioned that the country has sufficient submarine cable capacity, with plans to add nearly 30 terabytes by 2027. Free WiFi services have been introduced at airports, on trains through Starlink connectivity, and at railway stations in Cox’s Bazar to enhance public services.
He called on journalists to focus on objective and fact-based reporting, emphasizing the government’s desire for transparency, accountability, and a corruption-free administration.
Prime Minister’s Adviser Rehan Asif Asad attended the event as a special guest, with BTRC Chairman Major General (Retd.) Emdad Ul Bari as the main discussant. Barrister Shahed Alam, Head of Regulatory and Corporate Affairs, Robi, presented the keynote paper titled ‘Shaping the Next Era of Telecom: Bangladesh Perspective.’ TRNB President Samir Kumar Day chaired the event, while General Secretary Masuduzzaman Robin delivered the welcome address.